If you’re looking for a holiday that begins the moment you arrive, a cruise through the Norwegian Fjords on P&O’s Iona could be just what you need. We spent seven unforgettable nights aboard this beautiful ship, and from the moment we stepped onboard, it felt like the perfect escape. Here’s a look at what made our trip so special, along with a few tips to help you get the most from your own cruise.
Smooth Start in Southampton
One of the best things about sailing from Southampton is how easy it is. There are no airports or long transfers to worry about. We were through the terminal, past security, and onboard in just 15 minutes.
After a quick visit to our muster station, we dropped our hand luggage in the cabin and made our way straight to the jacuzzis. Throughout the trip, getting on and off the ship was effortless. Even with more than 5,000 passengers, P&O has the logistics incredibly well organised.
Jacuzzis with a View
Iona has 18 jacuzzis onboard, and some feature glass fronts that offer amazing views. Watching the Fjords glide by while relaxing in warm water was something truly memorable.
Dining on Iona
There’s no shortage of food options on this ship. Iona has four main dining restaurants: Coral, Pearl, Opal and Aqua. You can book a table through the ‘My Holiday’ app or simply turn up, though sometimes there’s a short wait during busy times.
We especially liked Coral and Pearl for their large windows at the back of the ship. If you get the chance, ask for a window table. Other guests preferred Opal and Aqua for their quieter, more intimate feel, but all four offer the same menu.
We also booked The Olive Grove, a Mediterranean-style restaurant with plenty of choice. Some dishes carry a small surcharge, though we found more than enough included options to enjoy.
For my birthday, we treated ourselves to a night at The Limelight Club. We booked this special dinner and entertainment evening about two weeks before the cruise. Actor Tom Lister, known from Emmerdale, was the guest performer. He had brilliant stories to share, made us laugh, and was a fantastic singer too.
Beyond that, there’s the Horizon buffet which is open for most of the day, and The Quays, a relaxed area offering fish and chips, American-style meals, and Asian noodles. No matter your tastes, you’ll always find something delicious.
Entertainment Every Day
There was never a dull moment onboard. Our favourite place was The 710 Club, a cosy bar with a live band playing great cover songs.
We also enjoyed a range of other entertainment including theatre shows, silent discos, sail-away parties, acrobatics, and live music throughout the ship. The atrium often had performances too, creating a really lively atmosphere.
If you’re after more fun, there were quizzes, deck games, the Mr & Mrs Show, and even Deal or No Deal. There’s also a cinema with four screens showing different films each day. The real challenge was choosing what to do next.
Relaxing in Our Cabin
We chose a balcony cabin so we could enjoy the views in privacy, and it was well worth it. Sitting with a drink while the ship cruised past the Fjords was an experience we won’t forget.
Of course, not everyone needs a balcony. We met plenty of guests who stayed in inside cabins and were really pleased with the value for money.
A Great Value Drinks Package
Booking the Classic Drinks Package in advance turned out to be a smart move. It included beer, wine, cocktails, mocktails, soft drinks, and Costa coffee (where marked).
I was especially pleased to see so many alcohol-free options available, including non-alcoholic beers, wines, and even spirits. It really felt like there was something for everyone.
Scenery to Remember
The Norwegian Fjords were absolutely stunning. Cruising through these landscapes felt like being in a painting, with steep mountains, waterfalls, and peaceful waters all around.
One highlight was the early morning cruise-by in Olden. It starts around 5 a.m., and while that might be too early for some, there’s plenty more incredible scenery throughout the trip. I honestly loved it so much I’d happily book the same cruise again.
Helpful Tips from Our Trip
Norwegian summers can be as unpredictable as ours, so packing layers is essential. Bring a mix of lighter clothing, a warm jacket, and a rain mac, just in case.
For time at the pool or jacuzzis, I recommend packing swimwear in your hand luggage. Your main suitcase can take a few hours to reach your cabin. A lightweight wrap is also useful for covering up after a dip.
Evenings are mostly cruise casual, although there is a celebration night where smarter attire is expected. A jacket and tie work well, and it’s lovely to see people wearing traditional or military dress too. One family we saw wore colourful Indian saris which looked beautiful.
If you’re celebrating a special occasion, book your night at The Limelight Club about two weeks before your cruise. The Olive Grove can be booked as soon as you board and tends to fill up quickly.
In the main dining rooms, ask for a window seat when you can. For relaxing with a cocktail and taking in the views, The Crow’s Nest is the perfect spot and has a great drinks menu.
Even if you haven’t booked The 710 Club, it’s worth showing up, as they often have extra seats available.
If you’re heading ashore, bring a metal water bottle for excursions. The ship has plenty of refill stations with filtered water. And don’t forget to ask your cabin steward for conditioner or body lotion if you need it – they’re available on request.
One final tip: if you plan to take local buses in Norway, remember to bring cash, as cards aren’t always accepted.
This cruise ticked every box – relaxing, scenic, entertaining, and easy from start to finish. If you’re thinking about a Norwegian Fjord cruise on Iona, I’d say go for it. I’d do it all again in a heartbeat. If you want to hear any more about what it’s like on Iona or sailing through the Fjords, you can call me on 01329238677